Episode 69: Gemma Kemp

Gemma Kemp is a forensic pathologist and a mum of two little girls. 

We talked about the juxtaposition of motherhood with a job which is on the one hand fascinating, but on the other hand, unremitting and emotionally demanding. 

We agreed that the British attitude to dealing with death is generally unhelpful, from the euphemisms used to talk about it, to our inability to face the inevitable. 

Gemma explained in down-to-earth terms how she performs an autopsy, which she does day in and day out. She explained she feels honoured to be present at this final part of a person’s journey. But she also shared that sometimes these encounters stay with and trouble her - especially when they involve children. 

Spinning Plates is produced by Claire Jones. Post-production is by Richard Jones. 

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